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Looking for the ultimate packing list? You’ve found it. We’ve rounded up all the things you may (or may not) need to bring on your trip carefully organized by category. To help you plan more efficiently, we’ve also included an editable, printable travel checklist you can customize for every trip! Download the “Printable Travel Checklist” below!
This packing list shows the exact things to bring on vacation or other types of travel. It’s broken down into three sections:
This is the Table of Contents:
Click here to access the editable Google Doc printable checklist that corresponds to this article. You can also download the print-friendly, PDF version here .
The travel checklist features unique categories to help you pack for your trip efficiently including a list of things to bring on vacation and other helpful reminders. It includes all the items listed in various categories above and has spaces where you can fill in your own information:
Our readers looove our checklist! Below you’ll find all the corresponding details for the complete travel packing list of things to bring on vacation!
Below you’ll find a list of all the items you should consider adding to your packing list based on category. Print the checklist above to follow along.
I usually suggest you first decide everything you need to bring before choosing your luggage and other travel gear. Every trip is different and the suitcase that works for one type of adventure may not work for the next.
Read this guide on How to Choose the Best Suitcase for details on the best sizes, wheels, materials, and more.
If you’re planning a long-term trip or are traveling to a destination where wheels won’t work well, a backpack is the ideal option. Read this guide on How to Choose the Best Backpack for Travel.
You’ll want to bring a personal item for the plane in addition to (or instead of) an in-flight purse. Read this to determine what exactly is a personal item and if you should bring one on your particular trip.
A purse for travel is a must-have for a day spent sightseeing, here are the factors you should keep in mind when choosing which day bag to join you on your next trip!
Best Packing Cubes: Compass Rose
In addition to your luggage, travel accessories such as packing organizers are highly recommended. They not only help you stay organized and less stressed while traveling, they enable you to travel carry-on only on just about any trip. We recommend these packing cubes – they’re ours!
Depending on where you’re going, how you’re getting there, and what you’ll be doing, this essentials list has you covered with every little necessity to help you be prepared and enjoy your trip to the fullest!
Watch this video to discover TFG editor’s travel capsule wardrobe must-haves, that are versatile, chic, and timeless
No matter where you travel and how long you plan to go for, start by choosing ten clothing items for your trip to act as the core of what you bring. If you could only bring ten items and no more for this particular trip, what would they be?
These ten clothing items will act as the essentials in your travel wardrobe, also known as a capsule wardrobe. These ten items should be interchangeable so you can mix and match them to create different looks.
Versatility is key to a capsule wardrobe. Learn more in my guide!
In order to choose these ten core items most effectively, follow these guidelines on How to Create a Capsule Wardrobe for Travel. It includes eight examples for you to follow including options for both summer and winter.
TFG Editor wearing her favorite travel jacket: Eddie Bauer Charly
Now that you’ve chosen these ten must-have clothing items, consider what other pieces you need based on other considerations such as the weather and activities such as working out or swimming.
You’ll also want to choose your underwear and bras after you’ve chosen your clothing so you know exactly which fabrics, colors, and styles to choose.
Nude colors (or the color closest to your skin tone) are best for bras as this color can be worn underneath all other colors. Here are more tips on how to choose the best bras for travel.
For underwear, we recommend an average of ten (or one for every day of your trip up to ten days). If you’re traveling longer than one week you can hand wash them along the way. Read this post for recommended travel underwear.
Your accessories should first and foremost offer functionality such as warmth in the winter or protection from the sun in the summer. You can incorporate style into your wardrobe through the colors, prints, and designs you choose for these items.
For shoes, we recommend you pack three pairs (no less than two, no more than four). Bring one for sightseeing (walking), one for any special activities you might be participating in, and an additional pair as needed. The third pair can either serve for function to account for changes in the weather or it can be a dressy option.
We have an entire category on the website dedicated to the best travel shoes including ballet flats, walking shoes, travel sandals, hiking shoes, waterproof boots, ankle boots, and more.
Read this guide for a full explanation on how to choose the best travel shoes for your specific trip.
Watch this video to learn how to downsize toiletries
Toiletries are one of the most challenging things to bring on vacation especially if you want to travel light. While they vary for each individual there are some general guidelines you can follow.
“Travel size” 3oz or 100ml products and containers are sometimes more or less than what you actually need, so use travel containers like these instead. They’ll enable you to bring only the amount you’ll use for your trip.
Just like luggage, the functionality of toiletry bags differs and one may not meet the needs of every trip. Read this list of the best toiletry bags for travel so you can determine which options make the most sense for your needs. Generally speaking, hanging toiletry bags like these offer the most versatility.
Optional Toiletries:
Not all travelers pack a full-size first aid kit and you can usually buy most things on the road. However, it’s a good idea to take one or two doses/packets of each of these items and create your own “mini first aid kit”.
Watch this video to learn how to downsize your makeup.
Just as with clothing, create a capsule makeup collection when you travel that includes only the essentials. Use small travel containers like these to avoid taking large products such as foundation and concealer.
Instead of bringing all your hair tools when traveling, contact your accommodation to determine if they provide items such as an iron or hair dryer.
Instead of full size products, invest in travel size dryers or straighteners if needed. A nicely groomed mane adds the perfect finishing touch to a perfectly planned travel outfit.
Optional Hair Tools:
A travel adapter allows TFG editor to charge her laptop, tablet, and phone all at once!
The amount of electronics you bring will depend on whether or not you’re traveling for business or leisure.
If you’re traveling internationally, make sure to read this guide which explains how to protect your electronics from the different voltage abroad. Use a travel adapter like this one when visiting different countries on the same trip.
Optional Electronics:
If you’re backpacking around the world, traveling long-term, or traveling on a budget, there are a few additional items you’ll need to bring on your trip.
Other travelers may also find some of the below items useful. Click on the item below to learn about each one and why they might be important for you to bring.
If you’re traveling on a budget, read this post.
If you’re staying at hostels, read this post.
If you’re going on a round-the-world trip, read this post.
With the exception of your passport, cash, and cards, many of the below items are available in digital form. Use this as a reference checklist.
Watch the video above for tips on how to keep your stuff safe while traveling.
Traveling is generally very safe, but the most common issue is theft. There are a few precautions you can take to protect your belongings, such as using one of these anti-theft devices.
Anti-theft products that are worn under your clothing are particularly useful to conceal valuables in places like Spain or Nicaragua. We recommend this RFID secret bra stash to conceal your cash and cards safely and discreetly!
While not necessary, some female travelers make feel more comfortable with an anti-theft purse in places such as Paris or Thailand where purse snatchings are common.
Never carry your passport while sightseeing – this is a common mistake that leads to theft. Read these tips to learn how to keep your passport (and other belongings) safe while traveling.
These are a few essential things to do as soon as you book your trip.
Read this post to see my personal pre-trip checklist featuring my complete packing routine.
Watch the packing tutorial on Youtube!
In order to avoid overpacking, take the time to plan and research before your trip. Find out the weather forecast, cultural considerations, and finalize your activities so you can accurately determine exactly what you will and will not need for your trip.
The biggest game changer for me was using packing cubes – they completely transformed the way I traveled and I was able to travel full-time carry-on only for several years!
The video below shows you the technique I use to travel carry-on for every trip:
As shown in the video, I use slim size packing cubes. When I first started using them in 2013, I was finally able to downsize my luggage from a 65L Osprey Aura backpack to the 40L Osprey Farpoint.
The clothing used in the video is an example of what someone would pack for a long trip consisting of various climates, activities, and the need to be ready for anything.
Read this post where I explain everything you need to know about packing cubes including what they are, how to use them, their benefits, and the best brands. Trust me, they’re the ultimate game changer!
We have specific packing lists for destinations all over the world. Visit this page to find your destination!
And for every single trick in my packing book, read my full course “Stop Overpacking“. I created the STOP OVERPACKING program to teach you my exact packing process. Every secret, every detail, nothing is spared.
Learn more about Stop Overpacking here!
What else would you add to our travel packing list of things to bring on vacation? Share and comment below!
For destinations, please read:
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This downloadable list was just what I needed to get me organized for packing. Now I have separate tabs for trips I have taken. I can see what I planned and then when I return make notes about what worked and what didn’t or what I overpacked. Thanks for this great resource! Reply
L I Bowen on August 31, 2024 at 8:39 am This is helpful on so many levels! Thank you. Reply Meredith Boyles on August 19, 2024 at 8:39 pmI hadn’t traveled much, really, in over 2 years…thank goodness for finding your site! Now I’ll be well prepared for my new obsession, i.e., my next trip… Reply
Jenni on August 19, 2024 at 8:27 amI am OBSESSED with packing lists and this post is probably my favorite I’ve come across. I think when I was planning a trip to Italy, this was my go-to read for all of the international travel essentials. Thank you so much!! Reply
Brigitte on August 18, 2024 at 2:25 pmI have found this info very useful. I’m so happy I found your site when I was researching for my first overseas trip. Now I use what I’ve learned for all my travels, near and far. Thank you! Reply
Marilou Cook on August 18, 2024 at 4:20 pmThese packing lists are so complete. I had my own excel spreadsheets that I used for each trip, but these leave no stone unturned. Keep up the good work! Reply
Ronna on August 18, 2024 at 1:44 pm This is very helpful information and useful too. Thanks. Reply C Allen on August 18, 2024 at 8:49 am Love a good checklist!I started with this travel packing list and updated to fit my needs. That was several trips ago and I’m still using it! Reply
Noreen on October 1, 2023 at 2:19 pmYour packing lists and tips are the best! It’s so easy to forget an important item, and your lists help avoid that. Thanks!! Reply
Stacy L. Riggle-El Sabbagh on October 1, 2023 at 8:23 amIs ultimate packing list is what help me to prepare our very first 17 day trip in Europe (Italy and Spain). I’ve recently sent it to Friends to share the wealth! I absolutely love the Travel Fashion Girl site! Reply
Vera Kozlowski on September 28, 2023 at 1:14 pmLove this whole blog, this entire post is very helpful all being in one post! Thank you for helping us travel! Reply
Andrea Peterson on September 26, 2023 at 9:56 amThe idea of packing cubes was not foreign to me; however, after reading all these tips and putting them into practice, my hubby and I were both able to travel 3+ weeks in Europe last Fall with only an AWAY carry-on suitcase and a backpack that I ordered specifically to fit under the seats on European inter-company smaller planes. Thanks so much for saving us, as we will likely never travel the same as we used to! Reply
Sandra Cooper on September 25, 2023 at 7:47 pm Thank you for creating these packing list. They are very helpful. Reply Laura Austin on September 18, 2023 at 2:15 pmThis list has been incredibly helpful!! I have always maintained a customizable packing list that I came up with years ago, but this took my list to the next level and was significantly helpful in keeping myself organized for a recent 2-week, backpack-only, trip I just took to Europe! I have traveled to 35 countries and continue to return back to TFG for fresh tips, outfit ideas, the best packing tools, and lots of other helpful information! Thank you so much to TFG and this wonderful community of women!! Reply
Leslie Knight on September 18, 2023 at 1:03 pmSuper helpful info- I added a bunch of tops and dresses to my Amazon list. I’ve already got many of the items you recommend- one of my favorites is the electronic cords organizer. I never leave home without it! Reply
Karen Granade on September 18, 2023 at 9:22 am Your packing lists are fantastic! I don’t have to think so hard! Thank you! Reply Tracey on September 18, 2023 at 8:42 amI have used these packing lists time and time again. They have helped me pack exactly what I need and cut down on items I won’t need. I used to be an overpacker but these lists have solved that problem! Reply
Nancy S on June 19, 2023 at 9:53 pmI have been traveling carry-on only for years now (whether it’s a hardside bag or my backpack), and I’m always looking for new capsule wardrobe ideas! Reply
robin trubitt on September 6, 2022 at 5:32 pmI printed out the packing list for Italy the beginning of this year as I prepared for my May departure. I kept it in my purse at all times so no matter where I was, I had it to refer to when I was I happened to be in a store. It was super helpful in keeping me focused. Thanks ! Reply
Karin B. on September 5, 2022 at 2:17 pm Thank you for publishing all of this wonderful information! Reply Dawn Stear on September 5, 2022 at 6:24 amLove, love, love these checklists! I used one on my two week trip to Italy last May and it was so helpful. Planning to use one again on our girls trip to London and Paris in April. 🧳 Reply
Cindy Sievers on September 5, 2022 at 4:18 amI have always used a packing list. It helps me know that I haven’t forgotten something and not over pack.
I love the Compass rose packing cubes…I bought a set for hubby and myself. We use them a lot.
Thanks for all of your tips and info…now to just get a trip planned!! Reply
I love everything about travel fashion girl, but having these already made printable packing lists are the best thing ever! They are going to come in really handy as I’m preparing to take my two teenage granddaughters to France in March and this will give them a good idea of what they need to pack and how to do it. Of course I will supervise lol! Reply
Sabrina on September 4, 2022 at 7:05 pmThanks so much for sharing this list! It was so helpful for my recent trip to Panama. The Leith dress was a great addition to my travel and everyday wardrobe! Reply
Barbara on September 4, 2022 at 5:41 pmI’ve been working with fine tuning my packing list for years. If my husband says, “do you want to go to …?” I can be fully packed for any type of trip in 20 minutes. Reply
Tara Brown on September 4, 2022 at 10:16 am This is so helpful! I love the lists! Reply Alicia Simpson on September 4, 2022 at 6:54 am Love these tips!! Super helpful . Reply Wendy B on September 3, 2022 at 3:47 pmNever j ew what a packing cube was until I read your site. You are a life saver! Now I can’t live without them! Reply
Adriann Griffith on September 4, 2022 at 9:18 am Love lists to help me feel confident that I’m ready! Your lists and advice are so helpful. Reply Lashelle Rice on September 4, 2022 at 1:31 pm These lists are so helpful and love the packing cube video. Reply Patricia on September 1, 2022 at 6:46 amI love your blogs, you do amazing research have have great practical tips on how to best travel. I went to Italy in the spring and the first thing I did before getting ready to go was read your blog to see what I should get that would help make it the best trip. I also try to travel with only carry-on luggage, so you helpful suggestions are amazing. Thank you. Reply
Linda Murphy on August 31, 2022 at 8:14 amI have used these packing list as the basis for my upcoming trip to England. This is the most prepared and least anxious I have ever felt about packing for a big trip. I love that the list comes with shopping links/reccomendations as well as reccomendations on where to pack it.
If you’re short on time – the most helpful shopping list was the toiletry list. It provided great suggestions on how to stay within the TSA 3-1-1 guidelines even if you are planning to be away for a lengthy trip!
Thank you!! Reply
Thanks TFG for the best Packing Checklist! I use it everytime I go! And this year, 2022, I’ve been making up for not being able to go for the past two years. After a cruise in March and a month in Hawaii in the summer, I’m now packing for a Baltic cruise after a couple of days in London. The destination lists for London, Finland, Norway, etc. have been so very helpful, too. I’m pretty confident that I’ve packed what I’ll need. Haven’t yet tried carry-on-only and probably never will, but I’m pretty proud that I put at least 5 items back into the closet instead of in my suitcase this time! Reply
PD on August 28, 2022 at 10:13 amWhile researching for our two-week vacation to Munich, Prague, Vienna and Budapest, I discovered your web site. I am so happy I did! Since we were traveling to so many places in a relatively short period of time, and using a carry-on and personal bag only, it was essential that I pack efficiently. Your capsule wardrobe and packing cubes were a game changer! I admit I fudged a bit and threw in a couple of extra items but never even wore them. Thank you so much for the great information!! Reply
Christina Sebert on August 28, 2022 at 8:11 am Love this! Very helpful for us overthinkers. Reply Kalene on August 25, 2022 at 9:11 pmI honestly go over this packing list every time I go on a trip! So helpful. Also a side note, their subscription emails are amazing. Simply the best. Reply
Trixie on August 24, 2022 at 7:40 pmWhen I was finally able to travel internationally, this list was what I used to help me organize. Congratulations on 10 years and all you e accomplished- and thank you. 🙂 Reply
Stephanie on August 24, 2022 at 8:11 amLove, love, 💕 the packing lists! I’ve been using them for several years. I started prepping for my 3 week trip to Peru in September. Thank you for the guidance, recommendations and inspiration! Reply
Rochelle S on August 23, 2022 at 4:33 pmThis spreadsheet is my favourite clothing packing list, and one I recommend to everyone for carry-on only, or even just lightening the load on small checked bags. It even works for kids’ packing. Excellent, comprehensive resource, thank you for creating it, and sharing it with us all! Reply
Deborah on August 23, 2022 at 5:51 amThank you for these wonderful suggestions. Going to London in early October and the printed checklist will be very handy. Thank you. Love those pants. I need them. Reply
Camryn on August 23, 2022 at 5:06 amLove this resource!! Seriously has been so helpful for planning a 2 week Europe trip! Also was so helpful for my week in Montana during the winter! Highly recommend!! Reply
Patricia Thum on August 23, 2022 at 3:26 amI love all your travel tips! I will definitely be referring to your packing list for my upcoming trip to Spain and Portugal. Reply
Tammy on June 30, 2022 at 4:08 pmThe packing cubes are a great idea, but what about wrinkles? And is a steamer able to work on an adapter only? Reply
Alex on July 6, 2022 at 7:21 amHi Tammy, one of the keys to avoiding wrinkles is to choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics and to use the bundle wrapping method inside the packing cube! You can find more tips here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-pack-clothes-without-wrinkles/ Reply
Linda Wray on June 19, 2022 at 9:01 amI love your blog❣️ I just returned from Portugal and met a new friend who turned me onto your emails. Please subscribe me, as I’m not on Social Media.
All my best, and safe travels. Reply
Hi Linda, just gone ahead and subscribed you to our newsletters. Hope you had the most incredible time in Portugal. Reply
Jean Sutherland on June 11, 2022 at 2:45 pmThank you, your information has been most helpful. Amazon.ca doesn’t seem to have any of your recommended items for sale at present, especially The Comnpass Rose Slim Cubes. I used them on our last cruise and it made packing easy before, during and after the Cruise.
Would recommend this to any traveller.
M. J. Sutherland Reply
That is so amazing to hear thank you Jean. Unfortunately at this moment in time we are not sure when we are going to begin making our compass rose products again 😢 Reply
Sara on April 7, 2022 at 11:02 amHey, I’ve really enjoyed your site and recommendations on traveling lightly. I’m not sure if you’re still active on here but the link to your packing checklist seems to be broken. Reply
Alex on April 9, 2022 at 1:33 amHi Sara, I am really sorry about this, we are having some problems fixing this issue on the blog. If you would like a copy of our packing list, please email us at readers@travelfashiongirl.com and we will send you a copy straight away. Thank you. Reply
Laura Thiel on September 20, 2018 at 3:26 pmI pack one cube with everything I’ll need for the night and the next morning. This way I dion’t always need to unpack the whole bag, and can leave everything in place for the first night . Sometimes this means I don’t have to schlep a heavy bag upstairs when I’m tired–I can leave it downstairs and deal with everything once I’m rested. Reply
Alex on September 21, 2018 at 12:15 amHi Laura, this sounds like a fantastic idea, thank you for sharing your packing strategy with us!! 🙂 Reply
Heather on January 7, 2018 at 8:56 amI’m *so* with you when it comes to packing cubes. They make it super easy to find what I need, and it helps me fit more than I thought possible into my backpack.
I’m also a HUGE fan of earplugs. I’ve used them on the train or bus to sleep, on the plane to drown out engine noises, and at loud concerts. I highly recommend getting custom silicon earplugs that you wash off and use again, especially if you have trouble using the foam ones (like I totally do no matter how many times I try). Reply
Your packing lists have been a huge help for me when it comes to planning my trip to Europe. Keep the great material coming 🙂 Reply
alex on November 14, 2017 at 3:50 pm Thank you Theresa! Reply Liz Dorrington on October 1, 2017 at 6:00 amHi Alex, I”ve just discovered Travel Fashion Girl & I”m so glad I did. I”m about to travel for the 1st time to Singapore with my family, 5 kids included. Have you been there before? Can you offer me any advice? We”ll be travelling for 1-2 weeks. Desperate for your advice as a novice traveller. Thank you so much in advance . Liz xx Reply
